Save Pin Juicy, spicy steak bites coated in Cajun seasoning and quickly seared to perfection, served with crispy golden fries for an irresistible, crowd-pleasing meal.
I first made these steak bites for a family game night and they disappeared before I even sat down. The fries always come out perfectly crisp, making this our favorite casual dinner that feels restaurant-worthy.
Ingredients
- Sirloin steak: 1.5 lbs (680 g), cut into 1-inch cubes
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Cajun seasoning: 2 tbsp, store-bought or homemade
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
- Onion powder: 1/2 tsp
- Dried thyme: 1/2 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped, for garnish
- Russet potatoes: 2 lbs (900 g), peeled and cut into fries
- Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp
- Salt (for fries): 1 tsp
- Paprika (for fries): 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper (for fries): 1/4 tsp
Instructions
- Prep fries:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss potato fries with vegetable oil, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Arrange on baking sheet.
- Bake fries:
- Bake fries for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Prep steak:
- Pat steak cubes dry with paper towels.
- Season steak:
- Combine Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and salt in large bowl. Toss steak cubes to coat.
- Sear steak bites:
- Heat olive oil in large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites in a single layer, working in batches. Sear 1–2 minutes per side until well browned and cooked to preferred doneness.
- Finish steak bites:
- Add butter, toss steak bites until coated and glossy. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Serve:
- Serve hot steak bites with crispy fries.
Save Pin My kids love helping toss the fries with paprika before baking. These steak bites always bring everyone to the kitchen as soon as they hit the skillet.
Required Tools
Large baking sheet, parchment paper, cast-iron skillet, mixing bowls, tongs, chef's knife and cutting board.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy from butter. For gluten-sensitive diners, confirm seasoning and fries are gluten-free by label.
Nutritional Information
Calories per serving: 540. Total fat: 27 g. Carbohydrates: 38 g. Protein: 36 g.
Save Pin Cajun steak bites served alongside crispy fries is sure to satisfy. Try with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve the perfect sear on steak bites?
Pat the steak cubes dry before seasoning to avoid steaming. Use a hot cast-iron skillet and sear in batches for even browning without crowding.
- → Can I make the fries crispier without deep frying?
Baking the fries at a high temperature (425°F/220°C) on parchment paper and turning them halfway helps develop a crispy exterior.
- → What Cajun seasoning ingredients enhance the flavor best?
Smoked paprika, garlic and onion powders, thyme, oregano, and black pepper combine to create a balanced, smoky, and savory profile.
- → How can I add extra heat to the steak bites?
Incorporate cayenne pepper into the seasoning mix for a spicy kick that complements the smoky spices well.
- → Are there suitable substitutes for russet potatoes in the fries?
Sweet potatoes make a great alternative, offering a slightly sweeter flavor and softer texture while maintaining crispiness when baked.
- → What pairs well alongside these steak bites and fries?
Dipping sauces like ranch or spicy aioli add creamy contrast, and beverages such as light beer or chilled rosé wine complement the robust flavors.